Turning an Armoire Into a Pantry

Glass jars work well as food storage in an armoire-turned-pantry.

Not just for electronics or clothing, an armoire provides much needed storage in a kitchen lacking pantry space. In addition to storing food, paper goods and cookware, armoires offer the benefit of a freestanding furniture piece, which can be moved as needed around the kitchen or to an adjoining room. Whether it is an antique piece or newer store-bought cabinet, using the back of the doors as an organizational center combined with clever storage systems inside, turns any armoire into a kitchen pantry powerhouse.

1

Prep the armoire to work as pantry storage. Since you will store food and cooking tools here, clean the surfaces with soap and water or your favorite cleaning solution. Add any decorative touches as desired such as new hardware, bold paint color or wallpaper on the inside.

2

Install shelves as needed. Wire shelves from a home improvement store are easy to install and customizable to fit your furniture piece. Have them cut to fit your armoire for additional storage space, and then place them inside.

3

Create zones for food and kitchen essentials. Your go-to snack items and dinner staples need easy access, so put them on a center shelf. Likewise, group baking supplies, canned goods and spices together. Bulky items that are not used as much -- such as extra cereal and paper towels -- go on the top. If the armoire has a bottom drawer, store linens or seldom-used serving pieces in it.

4

Use attractive storage. Glass jars work well for flours and sugars, plus they complement the charm of an armoire. Wire baskets do the same and help to corral smaller items like drink mixes and individually wrapped snacks. They are also easy to pull out and allow you to see what is inside.

5

Cover the inside of the cabinet doors. Paint one side with chalkboard paint where you can write out grocery lists and menu plans. On the other door, hang cork squares with double-sided tape, and use push pins to keep notes, recipes and coupons at eye level.

About the Author

Karen Watts Perkins is a writer with a background in interior design and a master's degree in journalism. Her work has appeared in Southern Living and Lowe's Creative Ideas for Home and Garden, as well as local publications. She also writes about party ideas and celebrating everyday moments at Celebrations.com.